Seattle, WA. 4Culture is consistent in mission and adaptable in serving four program areas including arts, heritage, historic preservation, and public art. The agency ensures public access to cultural experiences through museum collections and theater productions. It currently hosts zoom sessions every third Friday at 12:00 pm and puts artists in the spotlight, like those featured in the picture above who spoke during a zoom session last November.
Committed to re-evaluating its effectiveness in meeting the needs of the community, a Social Justice Action Team was formed. Composed of staff, board, and advisory committee members, the group will assist 4Culture to better clarify its roles and responsibilities in the movement for social justice. The Recovery Task Force will focus on conducting a COVID-19 pandemic impact analysis, evaluate the effect on King County’s cultural sector, and stage a path to recovery.
As part of the recovery planning effort, 4Culture hired a consultant to oversee a Landscape Report, which will provide the groundwork to develop a recovery plan.
Image credits: A screenshot from the filmed Zoom performance of the new play Ain’t (Y)Our History by Rachel Atkins, directed by Shermona Mitchell, film edited by Robin Campbell, presented as part of Washington’s Votes for Women Centennial 2020. Actors featured: Porscha Shaw as Ida Wells-Barnett, Shermona Mitchell as Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin, and Shaunyce Omar as Mary Church Terrell.
The Mukai Farm and Garden was turned into a temporary COVID-19 testing site for Vashon Island near the onset of the pandemic. Volunteer Yvonne Kuperberg is ready to assist as she stands in front of fruit barreling plant, which currently in the midst of restoration. Photo by Michelle Bates.
State and county COVID-19 survey results have played an important role in 4Culture’s ability to make informed and timely decisions, and remains a priority to identify specific needs and restore cultural activities.
The early stages of artists’ careers are showcased in the galleries, which include promoting experimental and often less commercial art installations. Christina DePaolo, Communications Director shared, “It is important to us, as public agents, to meet individuals and deeply engage in what has become a digital space.” In lieu of in-person shows, Gallery 4Culture commissioned artists for an online series titled PAUSE/PLAY and features each EXHIBITION season.
Monyee Chau was one of ten King County artists to participate in 4Culture + Amplifier Collaborations with Resilience, 2020. Digital illustration.
In 1965 the agency formed as an arts commission and continued to evolve into an official Public Development Authority. Mission: With a focus on racial equity, we fund, support, and advocate for culture to enhance the quality of life in King County. As the cultural funding agency for King County, Washington, 4Culture works to make our region vibrant. For cultural funding and support programs visit: 4Culture
